This French Onion Ground Beef and Rice Casserole is the ultimate comfort dish savory, creamy, and loaded with flavor. Tender rice and juicy ground beef are baked together in a rich blend of French onion soup and creamy mushroom sauce, then topped with melted cheese for a golden, bubbly finish. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners, it’s a one-pan meal that tastes like it’s been simmering all day but comes together with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Casserole:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce – for a deeper, richer flavor
- ½ cup sour cream – for a creamier, more indulgent texture
- Sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers – for extra texture and heartiness
Instructions
- Preheat the oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or similar casserole dish with butter or nonstick spray. - Cook the beef and onion:
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion until the beef is browned and the onion becomes soft and translucent. Drain off any excess grease to prevent the casserole from becoming oily. - Mix everything together:
Stir in the French onion soup, cream of mushroom soup, beef broth, uncooked rice, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt. Mix until all the ingredients are well combined and evenly coated. - Transfer to the baking dish:
Pour the mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Use a spatula to spread it evenly for consistent cooking. - Cover and bake:
Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. - Add the cheese:
Remove the foil, sprinkle the top with shredded mozzarella or Swiss cheese, and return to the oven uncovered for another 10–15 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden. - Serve:
Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley or crispy fried onions for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
Variation
- Cheesy French Onion Twist
Swap the mozzarella for Gruyère or provolone to give this casserole that classic French onion soup flavor. Gruyère melts beautifully and adds a nutty sharpness, while provolone delivers a smooth, creamy stretch. This small change takes the dish from homestyle comfort to bistro-style elegance. - Creamy Mushroom Upgrade
Stir in ½ cup of sour cream before baking for a luxuriously creamy texture. It adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the beef and cheese while making the rice extra velvety. Perfect if you enjoy casseroles that lean on the creamy side. - Loaded Veggie Version
Add sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or peas for color and nutrition. The vegetables bring freshness and extra texture, while their natural sweetness enhances the savory depth of the soups. This version turns the dish into a more balanced, all-in-one meal. - Beef & Onion Deluxe
Mix in a dash of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of soy sauce for an extra layer of umami richness. These ingredients enhance the caramelized onion flavor from the soup and give the casserole that irresistible “slow-cooked” depth without any extra effort. - Low-Sodium or Light Option
Use low-sodium soups and broth to reduce salt content without sacrificing flavor. Season lightly, then adjust to taste after baking. It’s an easy way to make the casserole heart-healthier while still keeping it comforting and flavorful.
Cooking Notes
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